A laundry expert has warned that drying towels outside during hot summer weather may cause them to become rough and less absorbent, urging people to reconsider the common habit.
Expert Advice on Outdoor Drying
Deyan Dimitrov, CEO of the on-demand laundry service Laundryheap, cautioned that while windy conditions speed up drying, they can be harsh on certain fabrics. “It can be tempting to place your damp garments on the washing line when it's blowing a gale. Wind speeds up the drying process and can give sheets that crisp, dry feeling. But for some clothes, like towels, jeans and hoodies, the wind is a harsh opponent. It can leave garments feeling rough, scratchy and less soft. For these items, it's best to stick to a tumble dryer,” Dimitrov said.
How to Restore Softness
If towels have already become stiff from outdoor drying, simple household remedies can help. Adding half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle removes built-up chemicals and residue, restoring softness after several washes. Bicarbonate of soda is another effective option, acting as a natural deodoriser to eliminate musty smells. However, experts advise against using both simultaneously, as they react with each other and neutralise the benefits.
Proper Towel Storage
Storage also plays a key role in maintaining towel quality. Specialists at Clean Linen and Workwear recommend avoiding overloading shelves or drawers. Instead, arrange towels side-by-side to prevent flattening and ensure even use. They also stress the importance of hanging towels to dry between uses: “Hanging your towels up to dry properly between uses is also an important point - avoiding piling damp towels on the floor or in a laundry basket. This can trap moisture in the folds, leading to mildew and bacterial growth. Instead, drape your towel over a towel rail to allow it to hang flat and air dry quickly.”
